Electromagnetic Spectrum Agility Focus Area
Abstract
This focus area includes cost-effective, mission-focused projects to design, develop, and rapidly deliver new concepts and technology prototypes aimed at protecting DoD systems and extending capabilities across the electromagnetic spectrum. In the U.S. and allied nations, Department of Defense (DoD) communication and sensing capabilities are increasingly compromised by spectrum congestion and loss, as is evidenced by the recent radio frequency (RF) spectrum auction and the spectrum relocation fund. In other operational environments, emergent Electronic Warfare (EW) threats, technologies, and tactics contest the use of RF spectrum and erode U.S. capabilities in ways that are difficult to predict and counteract. This focus area helps address the dual challenges of anti-access and area denial though spectrum agility that supports the Third Offset Strategy by allowing our forces to operate when and where they are needed. Prototypes from this focus area will address spectrum sharing, spectrum relocation, and spectrum competition requirements, and will be evaluated under the electromagnetic (EM) conditions expected at home and abroad. Projects will anticipate emerging EW challenges and explore adaptive, agile solutions. Potential venues for prototype assessment include Stiletto Maritime Demonstration Program, Thunderstorm integration exercises, and multi-domain demonstration venues across the DoD. Knowledge and experience gained through these demonstrations will help develop new warfighting concepts and inform requirements and technical feasibility of future acquisition programs. Development of advanced prototypes will involve partnerships with industry, academia, and non-traditional DoD partners. These initial prototype efforts will help reduce the cost of future acquisition programs and stimulate efforts beyond traditional defense industrial base activities. Development of advanced prototypes will involve partnerships with industry, academia, and non-traditional DoD partners.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2018
- Source ID
- 299b28e8be0d43f60d74db78a2b10c6e